Examples Of Racism In Othello

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Racism has always been a negative part in society and is one of the most important social issues in the modern day world. It affects millions of people and is one of the deepest social problems in history. In William Shakespeare’s’ Othello, the notion of racism is featured throughout the play revealing many racial slurs and actions that are displayed in today's society. Set in c. 1500-1750, Venice is a growing Italian city that is a symbol of power, law and civilization. With that in mind it is also filled with white people which makes Othello, a black moor, stand out among the people of Venice and is discriminated in everything he does. Othello’s skin colour is constantly used against him through Iago’s manipulation and the discrimination of others in the play. And by believing that racism …show more content…

Racism in the Elizabethan era as a Iago, the main antagonist in the play reveals his naturally vile character through his jealousy of others’ success and well-being seems to be confident that “My parts, my title and my perfect soul/ shall manifest me right, specifically towards the “Barbary Horse” Othello. Although, Iago tends to target his confidence and uses Othello’s race against him as much as he can to destroy him. In Act 1, Scene 1, Iago uses a strong dose of racism to turn Barbantio against Othello. Iago implies that “Your daughter and the moor are now making the beast with two backs” (1.1.113-114) which infuriates Barbantio because he does not like the idea of his white daughter to be with a black male. Interracial marriage in this time period was not accepted and caused many conflicts. Iago threatens Desdemona’s father by warning him of the impurities of interracial marriage and even makes him believe that Desdemona is under the influence of spells and witchcraft. These

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